Fishing on lakes and ponds is a relaxing activity that can be done in a backyard or on vacation. Some people may live on a private pond where they can fish at their pleasure. Others may enter fishing tournaments or take their boat on a public lake periodically. Anglers can also fish for carp and trout in other locations. These environments include rivers, dams and reservoirs. When fishing, anglers will use a variety of hooks and baits depending on the type of fish they are after. If you're interested in having a better understanding of these fishing lakes and ponds, it helps to know the lingo. Below are some popular terms that will help.

Fishery – A fishery is a term used to describe a lake, reservoir or stream where people can catch fish, such as trout or bass. These may include both private and public bodies of water.

Snagging – Snagging is a method to catch a fish while jerking the rod.

Sonar – Sonar is the equipment used to locate the presence of fish and other objects underwater.

Terminal Tackle - Terminal tackle is a term used collectively to describe sinkers, lures and other gear that goes at the end of the line.

Catch and Release – Anglers who catch and release will catch a fish and immediately release it back into the water. While some state fishing regulations require anglers to practice this fishing method, some do it for sport or to conserve resources.

Farm Pond - A farm pond is a small man made body of water.

Bait Fish - Bait fish is when smaller fish are placed on a hook and used as bait for predatory fish. This type of fishing is often regulated and used during sport fish.

Fishing lakes and ponds are located all over the country, and are commonly used for year-round recreational fishing, as well as tournament events. While most lakes and rivers are public, some ponds are private reservoirs for trout and bass fishing. It simply depends on who owns the reservoir or water source. As you likely know, ponds and lakes have been used for fishing purposes for many centuries now. In fact, many of them are kept stocked with an array of carp, bass, and trout year-round for this purpose.
While some people like the process of angler fishing with a rod and line simply for sport or the game of it, others prefer to catch and trap fish for food purposes. Either way, it is often important to have a license in order to do any local fishing. Unless you have a private reservoir or pond, you typically need a license, regardless of the season. Like hunting, there is a system of order when it comes to this sport. For instance, it is important to release or throw back fish that are too small. When visiting public fishing lakes and rivers, it is common to take along a rod and reel, a tackle box, a map of the river or area, extra fishing line and plenty of hooks and bait.
You may want to use the internet to gather more information on local rivers, ponds, dams, and private resort environments for fishing. This is also a simple way to learn more about quality fly fishing rods, reels, and hand line fishing, which is done without a pole.